Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a PODA?

Cities and towns throughout WV, including Morgantown, Wheeling, Charleston and Clarksburg, have established PODAs.

The intent of the Friendly City Spirits District is to:

• Encourage new and repeat customers for restaurants and bars
• Increase revenue and spending at retailers and service businesses
• Facilitate an easier process for organizations hosting downtown events
• Boost tourism by bringing new events and visitors to downtown Fairmont
• Create a vibrant environment where existing businesses can thrive and that attracts new investment in the Friendly City

How can my business participate in the Friendly City Spirits District?

Any restaurant, bar, or other business with a valid Class A license issued under W. Va. Code §§ 60-7-1 et seq. may apply for a PODA Permit to participate in the Friendly City Spirits District by submitting an application on forms supplied by the City. Once the City has received a copy of the applicant’s S4 license (as required and provided by the WVABCA) the City Manager’s Office will issue a permit for the business to serve with PODA cups in the PODA district.

For non-liquor permit businesses, you can participate by having a window decal welcoming Friendly City Spirits District cups into your establishment.

A “No PODA Beverages” permitted window decal will also be available for any business that does not want beverages on site

Do I need a special cup?

Yes, but cups will be purchased by the businesses through their regular vendors.

Any business or vendor serving alcohol within the Friendly City Spirits District is required to serve all PODA beverages in a disposable cup no greater than 18 fluid ounces and bearing the Friendly City Spirits District logo.

Once alcohol-serving establishments have received their final PODA approval from the City of Fairmont, the business will be provided with an electronic copy of the Friendly City Spirits District logo to be used by the business owner when ordering cups.

Can patrons bring their own alcohol?

No. Any alcohol being consumed outdoors within the Friendly City Spirits District must be purchased from a participating business and in a cup with our logo.

Do I need to post a sign?

Yes. Businesses within the Friendly City Spirits will be asked to post a sign to help patrons safely navigate the district. Signs will be provided by the City of Fairmont and will indicate whether a business sells 1) sells alcohol within the PODA; 2) allows patrons to enter the premises with an FCSD cup; or 3) does not permit PODA beverages on its premises.

What days and times will the PODA be active and when will the district officially open?

The Friendly City Spirits District will be operational 365 days a year, from 4- 10 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Is there a safety or security plan for the district?

Yes. The Friendly City Spirits District will be regularly patrolled by at least one uniformed member of the Fairmont City Police Department, and at least two City Public Works employees will regularly collect debris left in the area and clear the street with a street sweeper as needed.

Is there any cost or fee to participate in the PODA?

No. There is no cost from the City of Fairmont to participate in the Friendly City Spirits District. However, all alcohol-serving participants are also required to obtain a private outdoor designated area special license, designated Class S4 or S4N, pursuant to Section 8-12-26 of the WV State Code and be current with all City taxes, fees, licenses, and permits.

If I choose to opt-out, can I later opt-in? Or vice-versa?

Yes. Businesses may opt-in or opt out of participation at any time. To change your Friendly City Spirits District status, contact the Fairmont City Manager’s Office.

How do I apply to participate?

The City of Fairmont offers an online application for alcohol-serving business that would like to participate in the PODA district. The application is a three-step process: 1) Apply via the City’s website o participate in the PODA; 2) Once the city acknowledges application, apply to the WVABCA for an S4 or S4N (non-profit) PODA license from the WVABCA; 3) Once the City has received a copy of the business’ S4 or S4N license from the WVABCA, the City Manager’s office will issue a permit for the business to sell alcohol in the Friendly City Spirits District PODA.

WV State Code requires that any business planning to serve alcohol obtain a private outdoor designated area special license, designated Class S4, pursuant to Section 8-12-26 of the WV State Code.

Will events and festivals be allowed to locate events within the Friendly City Spirits District?

Yes. Fairs and festivals will be welcome in the Friendly City Spirits District to encourage visitors to visit our vibrant and growing downtown.

Who is the primary contact for questions regarding the Friendly City Spirits District?

Alecia Ford
Planning & Development Assistant
City of Fairmont
304-366-6211 Ext. 333
aford@fairmontwv.gov

Alex Petry
Executive Director
Main Street Fairmont
304-366-0468
director@mainstreetfairmont.org